Gary DeMercurio Log

Mon Apr 15, 2013

1. Created a short beginner video on how to build a basic tube framed box for SketchUp
2. Created a new web page in the Wiki http://opensourceecology.org/wiki/OSHW-OSE-CNC_Torch_Table-v2 and learned how to embed files. Embedded the above Youtube video as well as a Google doc.
3. Created an online storage medium for OSE tech to house files to be able to access and utilize the same files instead of sending files back and forth.
4. Started learning LibreCad
5. honed my box making skills in SketchUp... I can build a 4"x4"x2' tubed pipe box consisting of 12 tubes in about 5 minutes.
6. Found a good free video editing program called BB Flashback Express player, allows you to record entire windows, portions, or full screens, also has a video editing program that works very well for making tutorials, very user friendly and easy to learn. A+
7. Researched suspension, chassis and drive train for the car. Looking at independent suspension vs utilizing axles. Axles would be FAR cheaper, however it may depend on what power plant we go with. The VW engine to me seems very expensive for what it is, will still need a transmission to go with it to placing the over all cost near $3,500 for a 1800 CC 50 hp motor. That is HUGE for that amount of horse power, and the old VW engines are.... not the best, rebuilt or not. Depending on weight of the vehicle... is 50 hp going to cut it, I'm fairly certain the VW engine doesn't produce 300ft/lbs of torque either or the HP wouldn't matter. Leaning toward the idea of axles and spring leafs as it would be cheaper, would like to speak to someone that has extensive experience building tube framed cars like what is used in drag cars. Think the 4"x4" tube frame is over kill and expensive, but it may make a good base for a chassis and we could utilize smaller tube frame for the cage.

Sun Apr 14, 2013

1. Researched the differences between the Dobson Gasification unit and similar models, cross referencing cost and build. Also, did some significant research on Plasma units for a research project at Harvard, may switch to the utilization of gasification as a way to reduce local refuse and waste on a smaller scale.
2. Re-wrote http://opensourceecology.org/wiki/Factor_e_Farm_Guidelines http://opensourceecology.org/wiki/Workshop_Guidelines to better reflect the updated methodologies that will be in place for the work shop and individuals contributing onsite.
3. Downloaded and became familiar with LibreOffice as well as Sketch up
4. Created three tube box designs at 1/2" wall thickness w/hollow profile, and posted it on the wiki at http://opensourceecology.org/wiki/Sketchup_Tractor_Construction_Set. Both a jpg and Sketch up file for downloading are available.